One day, a farmer spied a little sparrow lying on its back in the middle of the field. The farmer stopped his plowing, looked down at the frail bird and asked, “Why are you lying upside down like that?” “I heard the sky is going to fall today.” replied the bird. The old farmer chuckled. “And I suppose your spindly little legs can hold up the sky?” “One does what one can,” replied the sparrow. This little story evokes some questions as we approach Creation Care Sunday at St. Mark’s: What is our role as people of faith called to be stewards of creation? Can we do enough to make a difference in our world?
Let’s first acknowledge that biblical interpretation matters. In Genesis 1:26-28, where we read that we are created in the image of God, the word to describe human relationship to creation is “dominion,” For centuries, this was understood to mean that humanity could exploit creation in any way it chose. More recent and more wise translation sees the relationship as being more a matter of stewardship. We cultivate and responsibly care for creation, and we thereby realize its vast ability to nurture and sustain human existence. We are still learning what this stewardship will really mean for all of us.
After the birth of his son in April 2020, Bill Weir began writing a series of Earth Day letters for his child to read in 2050, weaving concern and wonder into a resource for other parents. This conversation with his child inspired his book, Life As We Know It (Can Be). He especially wants his son to know that opinion polls that show people do not care about the environment are wrong. In fact, there are many allies “out there.” They just do not know how to start conversations or evoke change. That sounds familiar.
In 1991, New Zealander Shirley Erena Murray wrote the hymn “Touch the Earth Lightly”, in part, to address the negative environmental impact that French nuclear testing in the Pacific would have in the region. The hymn’s title, taken from an Aboriginal phrase, speaks to the way native people viewed creation as being in partnership with humanity. We’ll take this phrase as a titled to the sermon Sunday in the service which witnesses to the call to be good stewards of creation. The sermon arises from Genesis 1: 26-31, which will be read by Charlie Matson. Charlie will also tell the congregation about a budding project for solar power at St. Mark’s. We’ll be led musically by the Chancel Choir, which is led by Gerry Sousa and accompanied by Lois Leong. We’ll have a moment for children, hymns and prayers.
If you are new to St. Mark’s, or have connected with us for a long time, we look forward to having you join on Sunday. Worship starts at 10:30 in the sanctuary. To connect online, visit www.smumc.church, and click on the Live Stream banner.